Hernia Surgery After Effects

A hernia may require surgical treatment in certain patients. The two major types of hernia surgery include laparoscopic hernia repair, a minimally invasive procedure, and open hernia repair 1. Hernia surgery after effects are typically mild and occur infrequently; however, patients should be aware of the potential after effects of hernia surgery before having this procedure performed.

Blood Vessel, Bowel or Bladder Damage

Blood vessel, bowel or bladder damage can occur as after effects of hernia surgery, John Muir Health reports 1. Bowel or bladder damage can result in bowel movement or urination problems, such as constipation or urinary retention. A doctor may provide affected patients with laxative medication or may place a temporary bladder catheter to help alleviate these bowel and bladder problems. Significant damage to the blood vessels, bowel or bladder is rare, but is typically repaired during surgery.

Chronic Pain

Approximately 7 percent to 12 percent of patients who have hernia surgery develop chronic pain after affects, the American College of Surgeons explains 2. Affected patients can experience pain for longer than three months after undergoing hernia surgery. Sensations of pain are typically mild to moderate in severity and localize to the site of surgery. An estimated 2 percent of patients experience severe, long-term pain. In most cases, chronic pain after effects can be managed through the use of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication.

Infection or Hematoma

Patients can develop an infection or hematoma as a hernia surgery after effect. A hematoma is a collection of blood that accumulates at or near the site of hernia surgery. Excessive bleeding requiring a blood transfusion or additional surgery is very rare. Infection or hematoma after-effects can typically be managed with antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medication treatment and physical rest.

Hernia Reappearance

A patient who has hernia surgery can experience hernia reappearance or recurrence as an after effect of surgery, Dr. Steven Hofstetter with the New York University School of Medicine reports. If a hernia reappears, affected patients can require additional surgery to repair the intestinal protrusion.

Testicular Swelling

Men who have hernia surgery can develop testicular swelling or pain as an after effect of treatment. Testicular swelling affects approximately 1 percent of treated male patients and can arise a few days after surgery, the American College of Surgeons explains 2. These uncomfortable sensations can persist for up to 12 weeks after surgery, but can be alleviated with antiinflammatory medication.